French delights. Mulled wine. Medieval buildings. Twinkling lights. Nowhere does Christmas quite like France, and this is your chance to see why. In just 7 days, you’ll see Château de Chambord in all its festive glory. Visit a champagne house. Try steaming wine in Strasbourg. Stroll the cobblestoned streets of Reims & so much more. Come witness the most wonderful time of the year in the most wonderful way possible.
I feel like everything went fairly well for it being a brand new trip. Trip manager and driver were great, very knowledgeable of the areas we visited. Very jam packed fun filled week!
This was a great trip to explore each city. Personally, this felt a bit more independent type travel (exploring the city by yourself or if you made a friend with them) vs other Contikis (more time with the group). Hotels were great and fantastic locations (centrally located near metros and the main train station). Fantastic free time add ons as well.
This self-drive tour in France offers a rich tapestry of experiences across its diverse regions. Start your journey in Paris as you drive into the enchanting Loire Valley, renowned for its Renaissance chateaux nestled among rolling vineyards. Immerse yourself in the valley's history and beauty, exploring towns like Tours, Amboise and Blois, each with its own architectural wonders and culinary delights. Then, continue westward to Normandy where medieval towns such as Bayeux and Rouen await with their Gothic cathedrals and poignant World War II sites. Discover the iconic Mont Saint-Michel rising majestically from the bay, a testament to medieval ingenuity and spiritual devotion. Later you will drive back to Paris, indulge in the city's artistic treasures at the Louvre, stroll along the Seine River and savor French cuisine in atmospheric bistros. Whether exploring the opulence of Versailles or cruising the Seine at sunset, each day offers new perspectives and unforgettable moments. All framed by the freedom and flexibility of your self-guided adventure through France's captivating landscapes.
Arriving into London, Britain puts its best foot forward with the internationally renowned Chelsea Flower Show. Be on the lookout for the royal, the rich and the famous at the world’s premier garden show. Hop the English Channel and experience the finer things in life as you cruise through the canals of medieval Bruges and witness the world’s largest flower auction in Amsterdam. Live it up at the Loire Valley Chateaux—where the riverside castles at Chenonceau and Chambord flash back to the heyday of the French royal family. The regality continues with a tour of King Louis XIV’s palace of Versailles before the vacation draws to a close at Monet's Garden and water-lily pond.
Frolic in France and Monaco on this 14-day guided tour. In spectacular Saint-Tropez, a Local Expert will guide you along the coastal town’s ancient walls for stunning views of the sea below. See three architecture styles beautifully combine at the Aix-en-Provence Cathedral. Slide into the passenger’s seat of a vintage car for a drive through the countryside, then sip on wine at a countryside winery. Savour the 18th-century elegance of Château de Fonscolombe in the heart of Provence in a 3-night luxurious stay. In Paris, admire the glittering Eiffel Towel and the majestic Arc de Triomphe.
A four-day city break in Paris promises an enchanting blend of timeless elegance, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Begin your exploration with iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, immersing yourself in the city's artistic and historical treasures. Take a leisurely boat cruise along the Seine River, admiring the romantic bridges and landmarks. Conclude your journey on a captivating day trip to the opulent Palace of Versailles. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of 17th-century French architecture as you explore the ornate chambers, lavish halls, and meticulously manicured gardens
Loved the whole experience- visited all the best countries in Europe, tasted wines, spirits and other European alcohol In cheapest prices. It’s not suitable for asians with dark skin and if you’re over 34 yrs old unless you have a thick skin to not give any reaction to the comments some people make as a joke- only because they are white and still young. Not sure what they are so proud about in those moments. Other than that I enjoyed my time with rest of them. The price was on discount- I had to add on some extra adventures which worth it. Honestly 24 days is finished so quickly. Recommend to all the people who like explore Europe more in less time in cheaper price. Great work contiki, I am on my second one now- in Thailand, this group of approx 30 people is much better than European escapades (just my personal experience).
Nine countries, nineteen days, one unforgettable adventure. From East to West we’ll explore the best of Europe as it comes alive in winter, from the historical heritage, colourful street art and infamous ruin bars of Krakow and Budapest, to breathing in the crisp alpine air of the Austrian Alps & strolling the cobbled streets and markets of Ljubljana, before encountering all the charms of Italy with a hit of culture and pasta.
Please do not wait to take this trip!!!!
It was wonderful and our guide and driver were spectacular. I only wished I did it 10 years earlier.
Thank you, thank you.